Contamination, Pollution and Quality

Microplastics (MPs) are a major threat to aquatic ecosystems because of their very small size, higher surface area, capacity to adsorb harmful pollutants, inert nature, and ubiquitous presence in the environment.

India's journey towards cleaner waters has been a complex and often contradictory affair. While it strives to meet its environmental goals, the implementation of sewage treatment standards has been fraught with challenges.

The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has been at the forefront of environmental regulation, often stepping in to fill gaps in governance and pushing for more stringent standards to protect the environment. One such instance is its controversial approach to sewage management and the uniform standards it imposed for sewage treatment plants (STPs) across the country.

Wicked problems need congruent efforts by multiple stakeholders from multiple disciplines and approaches. The water crisis in India is evident and expected to grow with the increasing population and limited available resources. For many years, water, being a public good, was managed and governed by the active participation of government, academia, and NGOs.

Crackdown on pollution: New Rules aim for swift action

The evolution of legislative framework for water pollution in India

Inadequate sanitation facilities result in environmental degradation and public health risks. A survey by the British Medical Journal in 2006 found access to water and sanitation crucial for health and longevity.

India accelerates pollution complaint resolution

Herbicides have become a double-edged sword for Indian farmers. On one hand, they have been a lifesaver, making it easier to control pesky weeds that steal nutrients and water from crops.

There is a huge dearth of cleanliness in India--open defecation is rampant; garbage management in most cities is in shambles; toxic hospital and industrial wastes and sewage are allowed to drain into water sources and food products are laced with chemicals.